As superhero films face growing scrutiny and shifting audience interest, actors like Glen Powell are rethinking their involvement in these blockbuster franchises. Currently promoting Hulu’s series Chad Powers, Powell revealed why he is not chasing roles within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) or DC Universe (DCU), despite his rising fame and appeal in Hollywood. His remarks shed light on his preference for more relatable, grounded characters over traditional superheroes.
Glen Powell’s Perspective on Superhero Characters
Glen Powell, whose career is climbing quickly toward major leading roles, described Chad Powers as a kind of superhero story he helped create with writer Michael Waldron. He explained the dual identity concept at the heart of his character, comparing it to the Batman/Bruce Wayne dynamic where a hidden side contrasts with a public persona. Powell appreciates the complexity behind secret identities but emphasized that no particular superhero is currently drawing him in.
“Michael Waldron and I created Chad Powers, and we always conceptualized that as a superhero story,”
Powell said.
“There’s very much a Batman/Bruce Wayne thing going on there. There’s the super version of you and then there’s sort of the version that you can kind of hide from the world.”
“So, I love the duality of superhero stories. I love the idea of secret identities. I love all that, but I can’t say that there’s one superhero in particular I’m chasing,”
Powell continued.
“Look, the thing about superhero stories that I’ve always loved is it’s like the early days of something, building something.”
Yet Powell admitted that he feels a disconnect with the superhuman aspect of many superhero tales. He said he struggles to connect emotionally once a character becomes “super,” which diminishes the personal resonance he seeks in his roles.
“I don’t feel, as a person, like a superhero. Once someone becomes super, I sort of kind of tend to no longer feel, I don’t know, the same emotional connection.”
Choosing Roles Beyond the Superhero Mold
Powell’s recent projects illustrate his interest in exploring diverse identities and heroism that is more grounded in reality. From his work on Hit Man to his current role in Chad Powers, and soon transforming into an action hero in Edgar Wright’s upcoming film The Running Man, Powell is building a career that leans into complexity rather than superhuman powers.
Though he remains a fan of the MCU and DCU, he made clear that those universes are not currently where he wants to focus his efforts. His reasons highlight a preference for stories where ordinary individuals rise to extraordinary challenges without needing supernatural abilities.
“I’m having fun. Look, the thing about Running Man that, really, I love, I think more than anything, is it’s an ordinary guy against extraordinary odds. You know? I think those underdog stories are the movies that got me into this business. I love what Marvel is doing. I love what DC is doing. I think what they’re doing is great.”
“But the stories that at least get me inspired, the stories that I’ve always wanted to be a part of, are these movies that you saw in the ‘80s and early ‘90s, early 2000s, where it’s like these are truly Man Against the System movies, these David and Goliath stories where no one’s super. For me, it’s a different feeling of leaving the theater and being like, ‘Oh, that could be me.’ If you just summon enough strength, if you just summon enough energy, ‘That could be me.’”
“So, I think that’s the difference. I just don’t feel that superhero stories really apply to me the same way that an underdog story does.”
Implications of Powell’s Career Choices
While rumors may circulate about Powell’s potential involvement in major franchises—whether as Ghost Rider in Avengers: Doomsday or even as a future Batman for the DCU—his statements suggest that playing a traditional superhero is not a current priority. Instead, Powell is carving out a path that favors roles grounded in human struggle and resilience rather than enhanced powers and capes.
This approach indicates a shift in actor preferences as the superhero genre evolves and audience appetite changes. For Powell, the appeal lies in characters who feel accessible and relatable, portraying real-world challenges rather than fantastical powers.
His choice may signal a broader trend where actors seek diverse stories that evoke emotional depth and personal identification over the spectacle typical of superhero movies. For viewers and industry watchers, Powell’s stance suggests that the star’s next big hits might come from unexpected genres rather than the usual comic book adaptations.
Ultimately, Glen Powell’s reluctance to pursue Glen Powell superhero roles highlights a deliberate career focus on authenticity and emotional connection, setting him apart in a market saturated with caped crusaders and superpowered champions.
